Criminalists are KPD’s October Employees of the Month
Published on October 23, 2026
LĪHU‘E- The Kaua’i Police Department (KPD) highlighted the forensic work of their Crime Scene and Laboratory section at the monthly Police Commission Meeting on Friday, October 23, 2026. Michaelyn Etrata, Crime Scene Specialist III, and Dr. Christian Vlautin, Crime Scene Specialist II, were recognized for exemplary scientific work and performance.
Chief of Police Rudy Tai stated, “I am pleased to recognize the professionalism and exceptional level of forensic science work of Michaelyn Etrata and Dr. Christian Vlautin. They remain committed to providing accurate scientific results that support the investigative processes at KPD for homicides, robberies, burglaries, unattended deaths, autopsies, and traffic incidents, just to name a few.”
Michaelyn Etrata
As the KPD Crime Scene and Laboratory Supervisor, Michaelyn Etrata is highly trained in biometric identification and is KPD's only Ten-Print Examiner, Latent Print Examiner, and Automated Biometric Identification Operator. She also serves as a technical and scientific advisor to laboratory personnel and sworn officers regarding the physical, biological, chemical, instrumental, and microscopic examination of evidence.
Etrata has been instrumental in establishing KPD's Rapid DNA capabilities. During the 2023 Maui wildfires, laboratory personnel faced an overwhelming need for DNA identification, and Etrata stepped up to help. She coordinated the use of several additional Rapid DNA units and a Disaster Victim Identification team, resulting in 62 percent of wildfire victims being positively identified.
Dr. Christian Vlautin
As a member of the KPD Crime Scene and Laboratory section, Dr. Christian Vlautin holds an equally impressive skill set. He was KPD's first forensic computer examination expert, significantly advancing and streamlining the department's digital forensic capabilities. His credentials include certification as a Cellebrite Operator, Magnet Certified GrayKey Examiner, and MSAB XRY digital forensic examiner, along with his IAI Crime Scene Investigator certification.
Dr. Vlautin also oversees digital laboratory operations, forensic training, laboratory quality assurance and control, grant development, and forensic policy and procedure development. His efforts to secure federal funding for equipment to perform advanced chemical identification have been instrumental in KPD’s ability to identify unknown substances and suspected narcotics without directly sampling the material. This capability strengthens narcotics investigations and provides important protection for first responders who may encounter fentanyl and other hazardous substances.
Dr. Vlautinʻs qualifications and work experience enable him to access and extract data accurately and efficiently and support investigation outcomes with sound science.
Together, Michaelyn Etrata and Dr. Christian Vlautin provide sound forensic work essential to KPD's investigative processes. They share their knowledge department-wide and with the community through educational outreach. Their professionalism, scientific integrity, innovation, and sustained commitment to excellence exemplify the highest standards of public service. Their impactful work strengthens KPD at all levels.
KPD's Role in the Hurricane Lowell Recovery
Finally, Chief of Police Rudy Tai expressed appreciation to all KPD staff for their exemplary contributions to the Hurricane Lowell recovery efforts. KPD played a critical role in pre-disaster planning and immediate response, maintaining law and order by establishing emergency corridors, escorting relief convoys, conducting search and rescue operations, and supporting humanitarian aid initiatives. Additionally, KPD worked in partnership with the Kaua’i Emergency Management Agency, Kaua’i County Departments, and local, state, and federal agencies to address recovery efforts. KPD continues to uphold its commitment to serve and protect the community by ensuring public safety and supporting long-term recovery.
Chief of Police Rudy Tai (left) presented the KPD October Employees of the Month award to Michaelyn Etrata (right) and Dr. Christian Vlautin (not pictured).
Chief of Police Rudy Tai recognized the outstanding efforts of all KPD staff who assisted in the Hurricane Lowell recovery efforts during the month of September.
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